Austria? G’Day!

Now, let's be honest. If you were going to market your wine to the world, you'd probably not call them Grüner Veltliner or Blaufränkisch. Yet here we are!

However, if you're looking for a great introduction to the wines of Austria, or just want to become reacquainted, then boy have I got two for you worth a look. 

Made by the wonderfully charismatic and hugely talented Ferdinand Mayr, there are three variants of the label, each with a broken piece of sound-machinery. This is the homage to 'Funkstille' or 'Radio Silence', of which Mayr reckons we could all benefit from more. With everything in the news these days, I tend to agree, and with a glass in hand!

First up, the Blaufränkisch. This red wine comes from the Burgenland region in Austria. With medium-high altitude, the ruby red grapes come from selected south-facing vineyards, perfectly exposed to the sun, to produce a bright, ripe and abundant red wine.

The Funkstille Blaufränkisch is a classic expression of this Austrian varietal; it is an approachable, fruit driven, and a really easy going red wine. Blackberry and spice combine with freshness and touches of oak courtesy of ageing in old 5000 – 8000 litre barriques.  Characterful yet very approachable, this is a very versatile red that pairs perfectly with all sorts of food, and none, and also works slightly chilled for summer evening sipping.

Now for the Grüner Veltliner, or 'GrüVee'. This wine comes from the Niederösterreich subzone in Austria. With medium-high altitude and slopes that face south-east and south-west, the conditions of these vineyards are perfect for ripening Grüner Veltliner. 

The wine is made with gentle pressing and minimal intervention; a two-month ageing on the lees adds the extra texture to the wine that turns it to the gold that it is.